§ 85. Mr. ALPASSasked the Minister of Health whether, in view of the excessive rents often charged under the sub-letting of furnished rooms in which the furniture is of a scanty character, he will consider the advisability of including provisions in the contemplated housing legislation which would enable local authorties to control these lettings with greater equity?
§ Mr. GREENWOODThe Rent Restrictions Acts already contain provisions directed against the abuse of over-charging by tenants who sub-let furnished rooms, and the County Courts are empowered, on the application of the lessee, to order that the excess amount charged shall be irrecoverable and that repayment shall be made of excessive amounts already paid. Any extension of these powers would involve amendment of the Acts in question, and, as I have previously stated, it will not be practicable to introduce such amending legislation at present. But I will bear my hon. Friend's suggestion in mind.
§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that these restrictions are absolutely ignored as to subletting and overcharge?
§ Mr. GREENWOODAggrieved persons have their rights in the Courts if they wish to avail themselves of them.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLEThey cannot afford it.